John and Ruth Colombo came over today, to converse and deliver two fresh copies of John’s latest book of poems, “effects” and “dream diaries”. John and I collaborate on ideas for the covers of these annual publications, so I am always eager to see the finished, printed book. This one came out very well, expressing JR’s wish for something with a film noir feel.
The covers offer a bit of a puzzle, playing off the title “A World of Differences”. The front cover scene is different from the back cover scene in about a dozen ways. There are quotations from the poetry embedded in the image, and even my initials are hidden in there.
John has been playing with book cover conventions for a few of our efforts, in one case, wrapping the title right around the book, from front to back. This time, he wanted no title or copy anywhere but on the spine. That made the assignment tougher, not easier.
We always enjoy our get-togethers with the Colombos. Today was a special treat because John has dedicated the new volume to Danica and me. That’s a first for us! Our gift copy has a nice inscription too, signed by both Ruth and John.